Erasmus Experience in Silkeborg, Denmark by Jess

Why did you choose to go to Silkeborg, Denmark?

It is one of the most beautiful towns in Denmark with plenty of nature surrounding the city. There are many bars and cafe's to visit during the day and night, with students from the local university college and gymnasiums.

How long is the scholarship? How much money do you receive to help you with living costs?

I went for 3 months and received a government bursary of around £1000, my rent was £400 p/m which was unusually expensive.

What is the student lifestyle like in Silkeborg?

There are students around but it is important to ask for a student contact before arriving in the host country so that they can show you around and introduce you to some other students. There are bars to go to at night and things to do in the day such as visit the cinema, cafe's, shopping and walks around the many lakes.

Would you recommend the city and the University of Silkeborg to other students?

Definitely.

What is the food like?

The food in the shops is the same price as in England, it may be a little different but that is part of learning a new culture. There is a wide range of local restaurants from Italian to steakhouses.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Silkeborg?

The university had organised accommodation for me.

How much does it cost to live in Silkeborg?

The cost of living was the same as if I was in England with partying, eating, accommodation e.t.c. I went on a lot of trips to other areas of Denmark which made my stay more expensive but it was worthwhile to see the rest of the country.

Is the language easy to get to grips with? Are there language courses available at the University?

The language is difficult to speak but I found it reasonably easy to understand. There wasn't a language course at the university but I was put in touch with a Danish student who was willing to help me learn.

What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to Silkeborg from your city?

I flew from London Stansted to Billund and got the 913x bus to Silkeborg from the airport.

Where would you recommend to go on a night out in Silkeborg?

We would go to Picasso for drinks then head to Chaplain depending on the night. We would go to Aarhus (40 minutes on the train) and stay with friends to go clubbing at the weekend.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

There are a few art exhibitions including the famous 'Tollund Man'. Aarhus is a great city with a big art museum called Aros which is well worth visiting. Silkeborg is great for walks around the lakes and through the woods.

Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Silkeborg in the future?

Ask for a few contacts of the students living in Silkeborg so you have a friend or two there already who will be willing to go out with you.